2025 marks the 80th anniversaries of VE Day (Victory in Europe Day) on 8 May and VJ Day (Victory over Japan Day) on 15 August. A VJ Day 80 flag flew at the Royal British Legion in Abingdon to mark today’s occasion.
At noon, members of the Legion, dignitaries, and the public gathered at the War Memorial for a ceremony. The Town Crier opened proceedings, followed by a member of the Royal British Legion who read the Exhortation, ‘They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old…’.
Two minutes’ silence was then observed.
The first wreaths at the memorial were laid by the Mayor of Abingdon and the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Oxfordshire,
followed by a veteran and representatives from other organisations.
This evening, between 6:30 and 7:00 pm, the bells of St Nicolas Church rang out as part of the anniversary commemorations. (Video of bell ringing at https://www.youtube.com/shorts/G14FbGzUOL0)
A poignant tribute, sadly hijacked by someone dressed like a walking Union Flag. Nothing says ‘respect for the fallen’ like turning up to a solemn event looking like a novelty tea towel. Embarrassing and utterly tone-deaf
It could have been worse – the group of pensioners with nothing better to do (known as the Abingdon Peace Group) could have been there banging their pots and pans!
How do you know they have nothing better to do? Perhaps as well as making a small stand for peace they are also involved in charitable activities in the town. Those I know are doing so at any rate. Don’t make cheap jibes please. (I am not a member of the peace group by the way.)
Please refrain from abusive comments. You disagree with them – fine; but argue a case rather than making rude personal remarks.
I remember the day well. As a child in Australia I saw everyone run out of their houses cheering, tin cans were tied to buses & cars which were honking loudly. We had been told to come to school whenever it was announced but as we walked there neighbors were saying “you don’t have to go to school today”. I think we were sent straight back home!
Absolute respect unfortunately fought for nothing now Banbury court is open
Not good enough